Southington Continues Work On Sewer Plant; No Odor Complaints So Far

SOUTHINGTON — Unlike the previous two years, the sewage treatment plant has been functioning well lately and hasn't prompted any odor complaints since February, the sewer committee said Wednesday.

"It's that time of year when it gets warm and we get complaints," Chairwoman Cheryl Lounsbury said. "I've been telling people we're proactive. I hope things don't make me a liar."

The town is in the midst of a $2 million upgrade of the plant's units that thicken sludge and then process it to reduce odor and volume before it is sent for disposal.

"The guys at our water pollution control plant are really doing a great job," Town Manager Garry Brumback said.

Two years ago, when its processing systems began to fail, the plant was the target of 10 to 15 complaints a day when the smell was harshest. Last year, chemicals were added to the sludge to treat it while the equipment was shut down for replacement. That also generated some complaints until the chemical additives were adjusted.

Now the facility is functioning well. Mike Finoia, the new plant superintendent who replaced 37-year-veteran John DeGioia in May, said, "The place looks good, smells good."

Assistant Town Engineer James Grappone said the upgrades are on schedule. One test of the improved conditions is the lack of odor complaints from the soccer leagues using fields in a nearby park, Grappone said.